Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023

In terms of engine and drive train, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023 have similar specifications. They both have a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of around 1000cc, electric starters, and chain transmissions. However, there are some differences in their specific technical specifications. The Honda Africa Twin has a bore of 92mm and a stroke of 81.5mm, while the Suzuki V-Strom has a bore of 100mm and a stroke of 66mm. The Honda Africa Twin produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque, while the Suzuki V-Strom produces 107 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Honda Africa Twin is equipped with Showa suspension components, including a 45mm diameter front fork with 230mm of travel and a rear monoshock with 220mm of travel. The suspension on the Honda Africa Twin is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom is equipped with Kayaba suspension components, including a 43mm diameter front fork with 170mm of travel and a rear monoshock with 169mm of travel. The suspension on the Suzuki V-Strom is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound, but lacks adjustment for compression at the rear.

In terms of chassis, the Honda Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the Suzuki V-Strom has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design. Both motorcycles have a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of around 120mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020

Both motorcycles have double disc brakes at the front, but the Honda Africa Twin does not specify the type of brakes, while the Suzuki V-Strom has double disc brakes with ABS. The Honda Africa Twin is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Suzuki V-Strom, on the other hand, is equipped with ABS, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm. However, the Honda Africa Twin has a rear tire diameter of 18 inches, while the Suzuki V-Strom has a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The Honda Africa Twin has a wheelbase of 1575mm, a seat height of 850mm, a kerb weight of 236kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. The Suzuki V-Strom has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1595mm, a higher seat height of 880mm, a higher kerb weight of 252kg, and a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles are equipped with LED headlights. However, the Suzuki V-Strom also has a TFT display, which provides additional information and functionality compared to the Honda Africa Twin.

Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023

In terms of strengths, the Honda Africa Twin is praised for its high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, wonderfully functioning DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and windshield perfect for off-roading. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom is praised for its powerful motor, high-quality electronics package, excellent ergonomics, very good gravel mode, off-road ABS, intuitive operation of the electronics, long-distance comfort, and successful retro look.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda Africa Twin is criticized for having handguards that are not very robust for off-road use, a flood of switches on the left handlebar, and a windshield that offers manageable protection. The Suzuki V-Strom is criticized for its high weight and suspension travel that could be greater.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin excels in terms of its engine performance, electronic aids, and off-road capabilities, while the Suzuki V-Strom stands out with its powerful motor, high-quality electronics, and retro design. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use of the motorcycle.